I saw this photo on Bolton Valley Resort's Facebook page and had to share it. Today is "Santa Skis or Rides Free Day" at Bolton - everyone who wore a Santa costume got a free pass for the day.

And it's a beautiful day here with sunshine and temperatures in the mid 20's. Last week we had light to medium snowfalls every day adding several inches each time. I think all the local ski areas, with the exception of Mad River Glen, have been operating for a while and it seems like each day they announce more trail openings.

There is a fun, new YouTube video about Dog Mountain's 2010 fall festival in Saint Johnsbury VT. Stephan Huneck, artist and founder of Dog Mountain and its famous Dog chapel, passed away earlier this year so all the events from now on are in part memorials to his life and work.

Coincidentally, Frog Hollow gallery in Burlington is currently staging a Stephan Huneck exhibit through the end of this month. It features Huneck's prints, sculptures and books including a posthumously printed book entitles "Even Bad Dogs Go To Heaven" and even a replica of Dog Chapel.

Frog Hollow is the Vermont State Craft Center and features works from 250 Vermont artisans. It's located at 85 Church Street in Burlington. Their summer hours are still listed on the website but it should be open most days during winter. You can call (802) 863-6458 for details.

All dog lovers should plan a visit to Dog Mountain located just outside Saint Johnsbury Vermont. It's open seven days a week year around and has festivals each year. For your GPS, plug in the address: 143 Parks Road, Saint Johnsbury, VT, 05819

The Champlain Valley Quilters will be hosting their 2010 quilt show in the Coach Barnat Shelburne Farms, Shelburne, Vermont, Harbor Road off Route 7. There will be quilt displays, merchants, a silent auction, quilt raffle, handmade crafts, and special exhibitsand demonstrations.Lunch and refreshments will be available. Free parking; admission is $6.

Named one of the top shows in the country by Sunshine Artist Magazine, the Essex Fall Craft and Fine Art Show has become one of the largest. The merchandise is good quality and many of the craft makers and artists are in attendance. It's great indoor entertainment on a blustery day. "The show not to miss."